Career Opportunities in Blockchain Technology and Cryptocurrency
On Nov 10, 2021, Bitcoin hit its highest traded price of $ 68,789.63 since its launch in 2009. Even before this number was achieved, Bitcoin(BTC) showed annual returns of 230%, outperforming every known index by a considerable margin. Due to these events, Blockchain Technology and cryptocurrency became mainstream and were studied extensively. This decentralized system sparked a new wave of academic studies, introducing new fintech and software development careers. Among all the newly formed professions, the ones listed below are currently in the limelight.
Blockchain Developer
Blockchain developers are responsible for implementing protocols, creating secure and decentralized applications, and ensuring blockchain networks function smoothly and efficiently. For example, blockchain developers can build decentralized systems that ensure transparency of publicly accessible systems, like where tax money is spent and can design it in a way that is easily traceable.
They are also capable of creating tools that can automate fund distributions upon satisfaction of predefined conditions, which is instrumental for insurance claims as it can eliminate administrative barriers.
This profession requires you to have a strong base in C++ and Java, an in-depth understanding of cryptography, and expertise in innovative contract development.
Cryptocurrency Analysts
Cryptocurrency prices have proven to be highly volatile, and the markets require professionals who can analyze the market trends and assess the risks that come along with them so that investors can make informed decisions. Cryptocurrency analysts guide investment strategies and maximize profits in these unpredictable markets.
These analysts are qualified to maintain the cryptocurrency portfolio of their clients and can conduct a market analysis of competitive firms and advice on launching new cryptocurrency products.
"Extensive reading on industries that one will work in is as important as acquiring a diploma or degree in business analytics to succeed," Vidya S Nath, Research Director, Frost & Sullivan.
Cryptocurrency analysts must possess strong analytical skills, the ability to research market trends and knowledge of various data analysis tools.
Blockchain Project Managers
With more blockchain projects taking off, there is an increasing demand for project managers with a strong understanding of blockchain development. These individuals assist in navigating the unique labyrinth of decentralized projects, supervising the planning, executing and successful delivery of undertaken projects.
The managers here are at the forefront of innovation and research, which is targeted around new applications and technologies. This is a suitable profession for those who desire to innovate new cryptocurrency products.
Blockchain Project Managers should possess an expert knowledge of blockchain technology and an arsenal of soft skills like team management, strong leadership, and risk management.
Blockchain Legal Consultants
In the wake of leading crypto trading platforms embroiled in legal disputes, blockchain-based firms are scouting legal specialists to ensure all the companies' papers align with government policies. Blockchain legal specialists provide that the employing organization fosters a healthy environment.
They are tasked with implementing compliance frameworks for crypto exchanges to adhere to anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) regulations while simultaneously monitoring changes in the global crypto regulations and providing updates to the executives in charge of carrying out the needful.
"Society evolves, and so does law. During the process of evolution, existing legal categories may be modified, narrowed, broadened, eviscerated, and/or supplanted," Dr. Ghayur Alam, Senior Professor of Law and Dean, Undergraduate Studies, The National Law Institute University, Bhopal.
The base requirement of every Blockchain expert is to have legal expertise and abilities to navigate complex legal issues.
Blockchain Educators
Educating students in academia and private companies is crucial to raising awareness of the intricacies of blockchain and decentralized networks. This action will permit knowledge transfers on various levels inside and outside the industries. Blockchain educators are the perfect fit for this task. They can draft a suitable curriculum and impart knowledge to the interested parties.
"To provide relevant teaching and learning opportunities, higher education institutions must balance traditionally structured academia with modern, adaptable learning frameworks. This may be achieved through providing a variety of modes of learning, like traditional face-to-face courses, online coursework, hybrid formats, and blended learning," Dr. S. Pradeep Devaneyan, Principal at Sri Venkateswara College of Engineering and Technology.
Blockchain educators should master underlying principles in decentralized systems, the ability to teach exp, expertise in curriculum development, and a keen understanding of the ongoing trends in the decentralized tech space.
UX/UI Designers
First impressions matter enormously, especially on the internet, where the average consumer can decide how worthy a website is with a few minutes spent. User interface plays a critical role in how a user perceives the nature of the interactive application. The same principle translates to blockchain applications. UI/UX developers are responsible for creating interfaces that the consumer can seamlessly surf through.
Blockchain UI/UX designing demands mastery of graphic design and all the respective tools(mostly Adobe tools) and an understanding of how users interact with the blockchain.
The careers in blockchain and cryptocurrency are diverse, as diverse as the technology itself. Be it the technical intricacies, strategic challenges, legal complexities, or even educating others. There is a place for the seeker in the blockchain universe. Any field will grow as long as there are contributors to it. Embracing numerous roles will help the aspirant cement a solid and impactful career.